Gouty Arthritis
1 medicine
Gouty arthritis is a painful joint condition caused by uric acid crystals depositing in a joint, most often the big toe, treated with anti-inflammatory medicine during a flare.
Key facts
- Gouty arthritis is one of the most acutely painful joint conditions, caused by monosodium urate crystals depositing inside a joint.
- Attacks come on fast, often overnight, turning the joint red, swollen and exquisitely tender; the big toe is the classic target, though the ankle, knee and wrist are also common.
- Flares are managed with anti-inflammatory medicines; COX-2 selective agents such as etoricoxib bring down inflammation with a lower risk of stomach irritation than older NSAIDs.
- Recurrent attacks warrant uric acid-lowering therapy to prevent long-term joint damage.
What triggers a flare
Gout flares occur when uric acid levels in the blood stay persistently high. The body normally excretes uric acid through the kidneys, but a diet heavy in purine-rich foods (red meat, shellfish, organ meats), alcohol, or fructose-sweetened drinks can push levels beyond what the kidneys clear. Dehydration and sudden swings in uric acid levels can also trigger an attack.
Easing an acute attack
The goal during a flare is reducing inflammation as quickly as possible. Anti-inflammatory medicines from the pain management category are the main tool, and COX-2 selective agents such as etoricoxib are widely used to bring down joint inflammation with a lower risk of stomach irritation than older NSAIDs. Keeping the affected joint elevated, avoiding pressure on it, and staying well hydrated help shorten the attack.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if a flare lasts longer than a week without improvement, if you develop a fever alongside joint swelling, or if attacks are becoming more frequent. Recurrent gout warrants uric acid-lowering therapy to prevent joint damage over time.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.